Marugame Castle

Marugame Castle stands as one of Kagawa's most compelling historic landmarks, drawing visitors with its commanding presence and the quiet dignity that only centuries of survival can bestow. Rated 4.2 stars across more than 7,000 reviews, it has earned a firm place on travellers' itineraries across Shikoku, and for good reason. The castle's stone-walled approach and original wooden keep offer a tangible connection to Japan's feudal past, unhurried and atmospheric.

When to go

The castle is open daily from 9 am to 4 pm, so arriving early in the morning rewards you with softer light and a quieter atmosphere before day-trippers arrive. Spring and autumn are particularly pleasant seasons to visit, when the surrounding landscape frames the keep at its most photogenic.

“The castle is small but the location is good in the middle of the city. The view is beautiful when you are at the top, you can also see the long bridge going to Okayama. It's nice to relax at the top, just accompany it with a cold beer, that's ok.”— rimon gnokom, Google review